Find your peace of mind

As we approach Mental Health Awareness Week, experts reveal how a sense of community and social interaction can make a real difference

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n recent years, mental health has become a huge topic of conversation. And with one in four people in England experiencing a mental health problem of some kind each year, and women being three times more likely than men to suffer, it’s a subject we should continue to shout about — especially during Mental Health Awareness Week, which takes place from 12-18 May.

This year, the campaign is focusing on the theme of ‘community’ and highlighting the role that positive communities can play. As well as giving people a sense of belonging and support, social connections can help people be physically healthier and happier too.

"Being part of a community is an important thing for social connection. If we look from an evolutionary perspective, we’ve never done things in isolation. Everything is always done with a group, with a company, that’s just how we do it,” explains Practitioner Psychologist Doctor Ravi Gill (smartmindhealth.co.uk). She adds, “Being around people helps to reduce our stress levels, reduce anxiety presentation, but also low mood presentation. This is because it helps to provide emotional support.